Proliferation

Definition

Proliferation is a noun meaning (1) a rapid or excessive increase or spread of something; (2) Biology: the rapid reproduction of cells, often resulting in tissue growth; (3) International relations: the spread of weapons—especially nuclear, chemical, or biological—to additional states or actors.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃən/
• Respelling: pruh-LIF-uh-RAY-shən

British English

• IPA: /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃ(ə)n/
• Respelling: pruh-LIF-uh-RAY-shən

Etymology

From proliferate + the noun-forming suffix -ion; ultimately related to Latin prōlēs “offspring, progeny” and ferre “to bear, carry,” reflecting the sense of “bearing offspring” and rapid multiplication.

Derivatives

• proliferate (verb) — to multiply or increase rapidly
• proliferating (adjective/participle)
• proliferative (adjective) — tending to proliferate; promoting growth
• antiproliferative (adjective) — inhibiting cell growth or spread
• proliferator (noun) — one who or that which proliferates; often of weapons
• nonproliferation / non-proliferation (noun) — prevention of the spread of weapons, esp. nuclear

Synonyms

• spread
• expansion
• multiplication
• growth
• escalation
• diffusion
• propagation
• upsurge

Antonyms

• decline
• reduction
• decrease
• diminution
• contraction
• abatement
• containment
• rollback

Usage

General: “Analysts noted a proliferation of AI-powered tools across the sector.”

Biology/Medicine: “The assay measures keratinocyte proliferation in response to growth factors.”

International relations: “Treaties aim to curb the proliferation of nuclear weapons.”

Related Terms

• Replication: The process of making copies, especially of DNA.
• Mitosis: Cell division resulting in two daughter cells.
• Hyperplasia: Increase in cell number in a tissue or organ.
• Arms race: Competitive accumulation of weaponry.
• Nonproliferation regime: International frameworks to prevent weapons spread.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A rapid or excessive increase or spread — a swift multiplication in number, variety, or availability.
  • Example: “There has been a proliferation of independent media outlets in recent years.”
• Biology: Rapid reproduction of cells; tissue growth via cell division — normal (e.g., wound healing) or pathological (e.g., tumor growth).
  • Example: “Uncontrolled cellular proliferation is a hallmark of cancer.”
• International relations: The spread of weapons to additional states or actors — especially weapons of mass destruction.
  • Example: “Export controls were tightened to halt the proliferation of missile technology.”